For Saskia Macdonald, moving back to her hometown of Mackay to complete a graduate midwifery program was a no-brainer.

The 23-year-old registered nurse had been living and working in Brisbane when Mater Private Hospital Mackay introduced fee-free midwifery courses.

Ms Macdonald said the opportunity to broaden her skillset was all the incentive she needed to return to Mackay and her family.

“Being a student is difficult financially, so having Mater pay for my midwifery graduate course has been a great help,” Ms Macdonald said.

“They put a lot of time into the program to help educate us and to develop our skills, as well as our confidence.

“I’d recommend it to any nurse considering doing a midwifery course.”

Colleague, Ella Hitchcock, 21, relocated to Mackay from Brisbane to take up the opportunity for the fee-free course and to live closer to her partner.

“My partner works in the mines and Mackay offered work opportunities for both of us, so it worked out well,” Ms Hitchcock said.

Also a registered nurse, Ms Hitchcock started at Mater Private Hospital Mackay in February this year and began her midwifery studies in June.

“I’ve always wanted to be a midwife and it’s a privilege helping birth babies and support mums through the experience,” she said.

Mater Midwifery Nurse Unit Manager of Maternity, Paediatrics and Women’s Health Sarah Fordyce said Mater pays the midwifery course fees–around $5,000–for each student to make it easier for registered nurses to expand their skillsets.

“Essentially, Mater pays the nurses for the 1,000 hours of practical experience they need become fully qualified midwives whereas most midwifery students are unpaid during their practical experience,” Ms Fordyce said.

Ms Fordyce was instrumental in starting the fee-free midwife program last year, which requires graduates to work at Mater Private Hospital Mackay for two years after completing the course.

“We are very focused on building our midwifery workforce and we ensure that students are getting hands-on experience while working here in the hospital,” she said.

“They are also able to do a more intensive online course which enables them to graduate after 12 months, instead of 18 or 24 months.”

Mater Private Hospital Mackay General Manager Karen Wade said the hospital has more than 25 full time and part-time midwives who support the delivery of around 500 babies every year.

She said the fee-free midwifery course initiative was ensuring Mackay mothers and babies had access to highly skilled midwives close to home.

“We’re very proud of our student midwife program and have two graduates who’ve just finished and become fully qualified, now working in the hospital,” Ms Wade said.

“We also have three students graduating in January and another two in June next year.”

Mater’s fee-free midwife program aims to take three new students each year on the condition that they are already registered nurses and residents of Mackay or willing to move to the area.

For more information about the fee-free midwifery course, email or phone 07 4965 5870.

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In an effort to make it easier for the Mackay region to prepare for disaster season, Mackay Regional Council and Woolworths joined forces once again!

Up until November 19, each of the region’s eight Woolworths stores will have a dedicated aisle end stocked with key items for household disaster kits.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council had installed banners with tear-off shopping lists out the front of Woolworths stores, that customers can rip off and take into the store with them.

“These shopping lists have been specially designed to list most of the key items that a household would need in an emergency situation,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Last year, 1650 lists were taken from Mackay region stores, so it’s fantastic that residents are taking advantage of them to be prepared,” he said.

“We know that our region is vulnerable to some of the worst disasters, such as cyclones, floods and bush fires.

“It is essential that everyone has at least three full days of supplies, including water, non-refrigerated food items, medicines and toiletries.

“We recommend that an emergency kit is kept in a safe dry place at all times as we head into disaster season.”

Woolworths Mackay Group Manager Peter Underwood said customers would find signage and flyers in Woolworths stores throughout the region that highlight which items to stock their pantries with and where they’re located.

“Our Mackay stores are here for their community and many locals will already be familiar with the role we play in disaster recovery to ensure households can restock their pantries with essentials,” Mr Underwood said.

“It’s now more important than ever to prepare early, which is why we’re once again supporting Mackay Council on a disaster readiness campaign,” he said.

“While we’ll always work to get our stores open as soon as possible after a disaster, road closures and flood waters can mean some residents simply aren’t able to get to us, and that’s why we want to help them build up a supply of essentials before an event, that they can rely on.”

Visit the Disaster Dashboard at disaster.mackay.qld.gov.au for more information on how to Get Ready.

Mackay Regional Council and Woolworths are helping residents prepare for disaster season by providing ready-to-use shopping lists and dedicated aisles with key emergency kit items in all eight local stores until November 19. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay Celebrates Emergency Nurses Day

In honour of Emergency Nurses Day, celebrated last week on Wednesday October 8, the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) paid tribute to the dedicated teams of nurses who form the heart of emergency care across the region.

Known for their calm under pressure and steady hands in moments of crisis, emergency nurses provide skilled, compassionate care to patients and families facing some of life’s most challenging circumstances.

Whether responding to trauma, stabilising severe injuries, or managing life-threatening illnesses, their presence offers both reassurance and expertise when it is needed most.

In appreciation, Mackay HHS acknowledged the vital role these nurses play across their facilities.

“In the fast-paced ED, these nurses expertly assess patients, administer medications, perform vital procedures and ensure every patient receives timely, high-quality care,” a representative said.

“They also offer reassurance, empathy and clear communication to those facing uncertainty, often while juggling multiple emergencies at once.

“Their commitment to caring for people of all ages, at all hours, is the foundation of our ability to respond when it matters most.”

“To every ED nurse across our facilities, thank you for your skill, strength and compassion.

“You are the heart of emergency care and your impact reaches far beyond our hospital walls, touching countless lives and inspiring those who work beside you.”

In honour of Emergency Nurses Day on October 8, Mackay Hospital and Health Service celebrated the region’s emergency nurses for their skill, compassion, and unwavering dedication in providing critical care to patients and families. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Mackay’s much-loved North Wall Recreational Area has received a major $2 million upgrade, with North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) unveiling new amenities and improved public access as part of a project designed to enhance the iconic coastal destination.

NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said the area can now be enjoyed by the local
community and visitors alike.

“Today marks a major milestone for all those who love North Wall,” Mr Webb said.

“After several months of construction, our $2 million North Wall recreational area project is now open to the public.

“Visitors can enjoy the improved infrastructure and new amenities intended to both preserve the natural beauty of the site and support community enjoyment.”

Mr Webb thanked the community and key stakeholders for their involvement in the project.

“From the start of this project, community consultation was integral,” Mr Webb said.

“The community’s feedback helped shape the design to ensure the area remains a place that reflects what people value — natural scenery, calm recreation, and connection with nature.”

The project was developed with input from community stakeholders including Yuwi Aboriginal Corporation, Mackay and District Turtle Watch, and NQBP’s Port of Mackay Community Reference Group, all of whom were present at the official opening.

Mr Webb was also joined by Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP and Mackay Regional Coucnil Mayor Greg Williamson to mark the completion of the works.

“North Wall is one of Mackay’s most loved spots, and these upgrades will make it even more enjoyable for families, fishers, walkers, and visitors,” Mr Dalton said.

“Projects like this show what can be achieved when local feedback is listened to and when investment is directed into practical improvements that benefit the whole community,” he said.

“I want to thank NQBP, JMAC Constructions, and the community groups who contributed to this project for helping preserve the natural beauty of this area while ensuring it remains accessible for generations to come.”

Included in the improvements is a sealed car park with increased parking spaces, an overflow area adjacent to the car park, improved footpaths and educational signage and an increase of facilities such as seating and shade.With a local office based in Mackay, JMAC Constructions completed the works highlighting their strong track record in community infrastructure delivery.

JMAC Constructions Project Manager Asher Wilkinson said the team was proud to deliver the project for the local community.

“The project takes advantage of the natural beauty of the area providing revitalised recreational opportunities for the local community” he said.

“We’re proud to have delivered this exciting community-based infrastructure for the people of Mackay.”

The upgraded facilities ensure North Wall will continue to be a popular place for recreation, connection, and enjoyment of Mackay’s coastline.

Recreational area inclusions:
• A sealed car park with increased parking spaces and an additional overflow area
• Landscaping
• Additional shaded picnic tables and seating
• Two external beach showers and taps
• An amenities block (daylight hours access)
• Improved accessibility including all-ability car parking, amenities and footpaths
• Yuwi Tradtional Owner signage
• Mackay and District Turtle Watch signage
• Red Rose Foundation bench
• Additional turtle friendly lighting
• Improved fencing / bollards
• CCTV cameras

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Spring Orchid Show Returns To Mackay

Mackay’s floral enthusiasts are in for a treat this month, with the Mackay and District Orchid Society Inc. set to host its annual Spring Orchid Show at the Mackay Senior Citizens’ Centre, 58 Macalister Street, on Saturday 18th October and Sunday 19th October.

Doors will open from 8am to 4pm on Saturday and 8am to 3pm on Sunday, with visitors invited to step into a spectacular display of orchids bursting into bloom for spring. From delicate pastels to vibrant tropical hues, the show will feature a diverse range of orchid varieties, each carefully nurtured by passionate local growers.

In addition to the stunning floral displays, visitors will have the opportunity to purchase orchids, pots, potting mediums, and a variety of growing accessories. Demonstrations will be held across both days, offering hands-on insight into how to divide and repot orchids, with experienced growers on hand to share expert culture advice and growing tips.

For those looking to take home a touch of beauty, raffles featuring orchids will be available, while homemade refreshments, tea, and coffee will be served throughout the event.

Entry is just a $2 gold coin donation, with all proceeds supporting the Mackay and District Orchid Society. The venue is wheelchair accessible, making it a welcoming event for all members of the community.

_For further information, contact President Noel Cotton on 0409 637 384, or email mdos.secretary@gmail.com. _

Updates can also be found on Facebook at Mackay and District Orchid Society Inc. or via the website www.mdos.com.au.

Mackay’s floral lovers are invited to the annual Spring Orchid Show at the Mackay Senior Citizens’ Centre on October 18–19, featuring vibrant orchid displays, sales, expert demos, raffles, and refreshments. Photo source: Mackay and District Orchid Society Inc (Facebook)

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Get ready for a fun family outing and take a trip down memory lane at St Paul’s this October.

Held at St Paul’s Church Hall, Macalister Street, Mackay, this nostalgic community event will take place from 9.00am on Saturday, 25th October, with free entry for all.

Sample a range of traditional homemade favourites — after all, who can resist chocolate fudge and patty cakes?

Stalls will feature a variety of quality fashion pieces, baked goods, sweets, books, artwork, and bric-a-brac treasures. Garden enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy, with a selection of well-established plants available for sale.

Food lovers can indulge in a classic sausage sizzle, Devonshire tea, and freshly made donuts prepared on the day.

As part of the festivities, visitors are invited to explore the heritage-listed St Paul’s Church and experience the beautiful sounds of its historic pipe organ, performed by Professor Judith Brown.

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As a canefarmer and long-term local, I’m proud to introduce myself as the new Relationship Manager for the Proserpine region with Wilmar Grower Marketing. Having lived in Proserpine for the past 16 years, I know how much pride, resilience and effort go into every crop we grow.

My husband, Rob, and I run our own farming enterprise, so I understand the seasonal pressures, business decisions and hard work that come with producing cane in our region. That experience drives my approach to this role: practical, genuine support for local growers, backed by a company that understands the sugar industry from the ground up.

Before joining Wilmar Sugar and Renewables, I worked in marketing and communications across agriculture, tourism and local government, helping regional industries strengthen their connection with the communities they serve.

I’ve also spent many years volunteering in the region as a State Emergency Service (SES) member, Proserpine Lions Club secretary and former board member of the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce. These roles have given me a deep appreciation for the people, values and teamwork that make our region so strong.

In my role with Wilmar, I’ll be working closely with Proserpine growers to provide clear information and guidance on pricing, nominations and marketing options. My goal is to help you make confident, informed decisions about your GEI Sugar – decisions that work for your farm and your family.
By choosing Wilmar Grower Marketing, you’ll have the support of a team that combines local knowledge with global market expertise, flexible pricing choices and tools that make marketing simpler and more transparent.

The nomination deadline for the 2026 Season is 31 October 2025, so now is the perfect time to review your options and see how Wilmar can support you.

I know how busy life gets during the season, so I’m always happy to come to you. Whether it’s a quick visit on farm or a chat over the phone, I’m here to help with pricing, payments and anything else that gives you peace of mind.

You don’t have to do it alone; we’re here when you need us.
You can reach me on 0437 803 019 or at misty.bland@au.wilmar-intl.com

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Bowen came together to celebrate a significant milestone for the South Sea Islander community, marking 25 years since the Queensland Government officially recognised their contribution to the region.

The South Sea Islander people have long been an integral part of Bowen and the surrounding areas, contributing to the town’s cultural, social, and economic fabric. The celebration was a chance to acknowledge their history, achievements, and enduring connection to the region.

For local families the event was both nostalgic and meaningful. Many attendees took the opportunity to reconnect with old friends, sharing memories and celebrating the community they have helped shape.

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP attended and said it was lovely to be a part of the celebration and catch-up with people he is proud to call friends.

The day combined formal recognition with heartfelt personal connections, ensuring the celebration was both reflective and joyous.

As Bowen marks this milestone, the event served as a reminder of the enduring bonds between communities and the value of recognising the contributions of all who have helped shape the region.

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The Airlie Beach community is taking action against motor neurone disease (MND) with a massive fundraising festival called The Big Freeze set to take place on 25 October at Club Whitsunday. The family-friendly event will feature a giant ice slide, live entertainment, and a full day of activities.

“The Big Freeze is a homegrown Airlie Beach initiative, and we are overwhelmed by how our local community has come together as a force to make it happen,” said organiser Katrina Chaplin.

Funds raised will support Fight MND, which funds research, clinical trials, and assistance for people living with the disease. MND is a fatal condition that robs people of movement and the ability to breathe.

Two Australians are diagnosed, and two die, from MND every day, with numbers expected to double by 2050. Certain groups, including football players, face higher risk due to head injuries.

The event will be hosted by Club Whitsundays, alongside the Bald Eagles AFL Tropical Cup. Local figures including Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins, business leaders, and Queensland Minister Amanda Camm MP will join in.

Participants can ride the giant ice slide for sponsorship and help freeze MND in its tracks. Registration is open until 24 October via the Airlie Beach Big Freeze Facebook page: facebook.com/airliebeachbigfreeze.

Organisers encourage as many people as possible to sign up, slide for sponsorship, and support those living with MND. Donations can also be made directly to Fight MND using the QR code, both before and after the event.

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Locals and visitors have been very excited about the launch of the Big Mango coin by the Royal Australian Mint and Australia Post.

When the Bowen Visitor Information Centre received their first quota of coins for sale, they sold out in just 43 minutes.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said people were lined up at the centre from 7.30am and the centre did not open until 9am.

“It really was like a Boxing Day sale in the city,” she said.

The good news is that the Visitor Information Centre has now received more coins.

They are still proving very popular and at the time of going to print, there were still some available.

As this is a collector’s item, there was only a limited amount made so the Bowen Visitor Information Centre is not likely to be able get any more once these have sold out.

There is a limit of three per sale – but for anyone who misses out, they can be ordered via Australia Post online.

The coins are part of the “Aussie Big Thigs 2” collection which includes ten of Australia’s BIG landmarks.

The Big Mango is the only Queensland icon included in the collection. There are also two coins, which each feature five of the big things, and these are in limited circulation so you may even get them in your change when you shop with cash.

The full Australia Post Aussie ‘Big Things’ coin collection includes:
• The Big Mango (Bowen, QLD)
• The Big Golden Guitar (Tamworth, NSW)
• The Big Merino (Goulburn, NSW)
• The Big Strawberry (Koonoomoo, VIC)
• The Big Galah (Kimba, SA)
• The Big Rocking Horse (Gumeracha, SA)
• The Big Penguin (Penguin, TAS)
• The Big Barramundi (Wanguri, NT)
• The Big Prawn (Exmouth, WA)
• The Big Wheelbarrow (Port Hedland, WA)

Contributed with thanks to Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy

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It’s been another big week for the Cannonvale Cannons, with new club records, a senior swimmers’ dinner, and the first distance night of the season.

First, we’d like to congratulate Tyler Bennett (13 years), who set a new record in the 25 m Freestyle with 12.52 seconds, and Tora Delac (14 years), who broke the 50 m Freestyle record in 27.83 seconds.

Our annual Senior Swimmer Dinner was held this week — a special evening for our high-school swimmers and coaches. A huge thank-you to Hog’s Breath Café Airlie Beach for their generous support; the food and service were fantastic. This long-standing tradition is all about team bonding — sharing a meal, playing games, and farewelling our Year 12 swimmers. This year, the evening was held in honour of Tiana Bell, who has been a proud Cannon since the age of five.

The Cannons also hosted their first Distance Night of the season, giving swimmers the opportunity to “swim up” from their current upgrade level, step outside their comfort zone, and take on new challenges.

Our weekly presentations saw Jax Eaves named this week’s lucky chocolate recipient, clocking closest-to-time with only 0.02 seconds difference on his 25 m Butterfly.

We also presented upgrades to the following swimmers: Faithlyn Trotter to 100 m Freestyle, our newest Cannon Olive Hounsell to 50 m in all strokes, Wilson Hounsell to 100 m Freestyle, Asher Springbett to 50 m Freestyle, and Lucas Korosec to 400 m Freestyle.

Finally, 42 Cannons competed at the Whitsunday Swimming Club Transition Meet in Proserpine over the weekend — full results will be shared in next week’s report.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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More than 2000 people turned out for a successful Bowen Cup Day on Saturday, enjoying a full day of racing, fashion, and fun at the Bowen Turf Club.

“It was really good just over 2000 people attended, and it was a really successful day,” said organiser Emily Harvey.

“We had heaps of catered marquees, perfect weather, and a great crowd atmosphere.”

The event featured a Sportsbet Tomato Relay with $4000 in prize money, and Lux Whitsundays ran the popular Fashions on the Field, celebrating the best dressed on course.

Fashions on the Field Winners:
Contemporary Filly – Darcie Turton
Classic Lady – Nicole Stevenson
Millinery Masterpiece – Marnie Davidson
Gentleman – Phillip Burger
Couple – Chelsea & Phillip Burger

Race Results:
Grandview Hotel Benchmark 60 H’cap (1000m) – Midal Star
Cleanskin Welding 0–50 H’cap (1200m) – Major Desire
Liberty Rural QTIS Maiden Plate (1200m) – Lost Lamb
Haymans Electrical Class 3 Plate (1280m) – The Hairdresser
Bowen Tyre & Mechanical Benchmark 50 (1470m) – What a Mission
Filby’s Motors Bowen Cup Benchmark 65 H’cap (1810m) – Penske File

Emily said plans are already underway for next year’s Bowen Cup, with strong interest from sponsors and marquee bookings.

1) Andrew Willcox and Raelene Willcox at the Bowen Cup

1b) Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins with his wife Mel

2) Race finish photo. Photo credit: Saskia Photography
3) Racing photo. Photo credit: Saskia Photography

4) Fashion on the Fields Couple Winner:  Chelsea & Phillip Burger

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Bowen students are putting their best foot forward this Queensland Mental Health Week with the launch of specially designed “mental health socks.” The initiative, led by the 2025 student leadership team, will be part of a mindfulness market at the school this Wednesday.

The socks are black, aligning with school uniform requirements, and feature a colourful message on the arch of the foot: “Just because you don’t see the struggles, doesn’t mean it isn’t there. Be kind always.”

The message is hidden under shoes, the message serves as a daily reminder for students to support themselves and others.

Principal Rob Harris, the coordinator of the project, said the idea was inspired by a student entrepreneurial initiative in another state.

He’s hoping that it will set a simple reminder to his students to be kind and be mindful of others.

The socks will be sold for $10 each, with proceeds going to the Be Kinder Foundation and the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network. A total of 300 socks have been made, with plans for the project to become an annual tradition, allowing future student leaders to design new socks with meaningful messages.

The mindfulness market will also feature local mental health agencies, activities, a barbecue, and a cake stall, providing a hands-on way for students to engage with mental health awareness.

The socks and event aim to encourage conversations about kindness, mental well-being, and community support, proving that even small gestures, like a pair of socks, can make a big difference.

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Bowen Flexi Care

In 2025, Bowen Flexi Care celebrates 30 years of dedicated support for people living with disabilities and their families across the Whitsunday region. What began as a small community initiative in 1995 has grown into a cornerstone of local care embodying compassion, inclusion, independence and resilience.

CEO Elise Woodhouse said this is not only Bowen Flexi Care but for the community, participants, and staff.

“I feel very proud that Bowen Flexi Care has established itself and been able to provide support to those that need it for the last 30 years,” she said.

“We need to acknowledge our Management Committee, Management team and all staff, past and present for having the dedication to get BFC to where it is today.”

Whilst Bowen Flexi Care is celebrating its 30th year, Elise is hoping that within another 30, Bowen Flexi Care is still providing the excellent support that is done now.

“The NDIS world is constantly changing and my hopes would be that Bowen Flexi Care can pivot in any direction to be able to support our participants to reach whatever goal or goals they may have,” she said.

The organisation started as the Burdekin Bowen Shire Flexible Respite Service Inc., founded by Irene Prowse. Initially coordinated from her home in Bowen, Irene was supported by early committee members including Richard Scott, Lu Gordon, Mary Harley, Neddy Morgans, Dellene Beggs, and Joan Giachin. The aim was to provide flexible respite and support across two shires with empathy and dignity.

By January 1996, a dedicated office opened behind the Bowen Medical Centre, staffed by a passionate local team. Monthly meetings, subcommittees, and volunteer efforts quickly strengthened the Bowen branch. On August 25, 1998, it became incorporated as Bowen Flexi Care Inc., serving Bowen and Collinsville. A new office at 10a Herbert Street and subsequent funding allowed the purchase of vital equipment, hosting of Disability Action Week events, and expansion of services.

Bowen Flexi Care professionalised in the early 2000s, adopting ISO quality standards in 2001 and formal staff training through Certificate II and IV qualifications. Partnerships with local TAFE, libraries, the Woodworkers Association, Blue Care, and other community groups flourished. In 2002, the organisation received a State Award for Excellence in Staff Development and Training. Structured day programs in woodwork, independent living, and community integration were introduced. Founder Irene Prowse retired in 2003, passing leadership to Mandy Edwards in 2004, who strengthened programs and community ties.

A permanent home at 44 Williams Street was secured in 2006, along with the Flying Cockatoos mosaic mural by artist Pam Finlay. Respite for older carers, garden and art programs, and management of accommodation for Endeavour Foundation clients were added. By its 10th anniversary, BFC had become a vital part of Bowen’s community.

Between 2010 and 2014, Bowen Flexi Care purchased a respite property at 8 Korah Street, launched its first website, and expanded social programs including SportsAbility Games, Camp Kanga, and outings. Recognition for excellence in individualised block funding positioned the organisation for the NDIS era.

BFC joined the Community Inclusion Project nationally and became a registered NDIS provider in 2016. Club 44 social groups, gala dinners, volunteer partnerships, and helicopter joy flights at the Bowen Fishing Classic highlighted the fun and inclusive programs. By 2019, BFC celebrated 20 years as a member of National Disability Services with a new strategic plan.

During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Bowen Flexi Care adapted services, introduced participant surveys, and maintained safety protocols. Mandy Edwards resigned from her management position in November 2020. Restructures and technology upgrades between 2021 and 2024 supported growth, with programs including cooking classes, tool time, art groups, community barbecues, and excursions to the Bowen Show, Proserpine Dam, and Airlie Beach Lagoon. In August 2021 Elise Woodhouse took on the position of General Manager. By 2022, BFC supported over 100 participants with nearly 70 staff, aided by funding from the various organisations and local partnerships.

In 2025, Bowen Flexi Care participants enjoyed a train holiday to Cairns, redesigned gardens with North Queensland Bulk Ports funding, and free cooking programs through the QCoal Foundation. Monthly social events, including pool games and a lawn bowls day, strengthened local connections. Leadership was refreshed with Elise Woodhouse as CEO, Toni Akehurst as Operations Manager, and Brooke Brown as Corporate Services Manager, ensuring Bowen Flexi Care continues to meet growing community needs.

1)  Kuranda Village Bowen Flexi Care participants and support workers enjoying their holiday

2) Support worker Nat with participant Sarina out and about in Bowen doing photography

3) Support worker Hayley, Participants Tracie, Brent Reudy and Emilie Power from North Qld Bulk Ports

4) Fundraiser at Bowen Flexi Care

5) Bowen Flexi Care Wednesday cooking group is proudly supported by QCoal Foundation

Photos supplied

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After taking over management of Queens Beach Tourist Village just last year, new operators Mel and Bob Sotheringham are already gearing up for their first big milestone the Whitsunday Tourism Awards this Saturday night.

“It’s our first year since we took over the park on the first of October last year,” Mel said.

“This park’s done so well in the past, and we’re hoping we’re going to crack it this year.”

The Bowen-based park has earned silver in both 2023 and 2024, but Mel is quietly confident that this might finally be their year for gold.

Mel said she is hoping the new judging criteria is going to give them the

Queens Beach Tourist Village offers powered sites, cabins, a swimming pool, water park, and children’s playground. The park’s 140 sites are neatly hedged for privacy something Mel says guests love.

“What makes our park really unique is that each site is hedged off from the next one, so you have your own private little spot,” she said.

While the location isn’t beachfront, Mel says the team takes pride in setting a higher standard.

“We don’t have sea views, so we have to be that much better,” she said. “We’re about 400 metres off the beach, but people come here because this is where they want to be. Queens Beach Tourist Village has set a benchmark that’s so high.”

That benchmark, she said, comes down to presentation, attention to detail, and a loyal team.

“Some of our staff have been here more than 20 years. They take real ownership of this place,” Mel said. “They’ll get up at one o’clock in the morning if there’s a burst pipe, that’s the kind of dedication we have.”

Cleanliness is another point of pride.

“Our amenities blocks get a full scrub once a week. It’s all about presentation.”

It’s that level of care that keeps guests coming back year after year. The park recently opened bookings early for 2025, giving current guests first choice of sites and next year they are fully booked already.

“To me, that’s such an accolade,” Mel said. “We’ve got people calling every day trying to get in. We’re now just filling the little gaps.”

With steady upgrades each year, from amenities blocks to cabin repaints, Mel says nothing is ever left to deteriorate.

“If something’s broken, it’s fixed straight away,” she said. “Happy customer, happy park.”

And while the park may boast two swimming pools, manicured gardens and a celebrity German Shepherd who greets new arrivals, Mel believes it’s the team spirit that truly sets Queens Beach Tourist Village apart.

“We’re all about partnership not hierarchy,” she said. “It’s about helping each other make the park better all the time.”

As the team prepares for Saturday’s Whitsundays Tourism Awards, excitement is building.

“If we win, my face will break from smiling,” Mel said with a laugh. “It would be so exciting and a real credit to everyone who makes this place what it is.”

Queens Beach Tourist Village are hoping to get gold this Saturday. Photo sourced: Facebook

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